Four steps to a digitally assisted assembly line

Step 1: Analysis and definition of the target image

Precise knowledge of the status quo is fundamental to setting up digitally assisted assembly. It must be clarified how many variants the products have, how long a typical product life cycle lasts and in what quantities they are produced. It is also important to define which goals have priority - for example, shorter cycle times, improved assembly quality or the well-being of assembly personnel. Even if certain compromises are possible, an economical assembly line cannot be a one-size-fits-all solution.

Step 2: Deriving the required digital flight altitude

Based on the results of the analysis, the degree of digitalization and automation to be implemented is determined. Long product life cycles and a focus on high assembly quality can, for example, justify particularly detailed digital work plans and automated test cells. Automation must be proportionate to the reality of production. If you overdo it, you become inflexible, because automated processes are always specialized. The human hand is still the most versatile tool.

If you want to keep all your options open, you can use digital assistance software that allows you to combine the human and the digitally automated. In this way, further automation and supporting systems can be gradually integrated. If you pay attention to standardized interfaces in the new software solution, this makes integration into the existing IT landscape easier.

Step 3: Define intermediate steps and maturity levels

It has proven to be a good idea to implement a new assembly system gradually in intermediate steps and functional maturity levels - especially when there is a lack of experience or the initial investment should be kept as low as possible. For example, the practicability of a setup can be tested via cardboard engineering, followed by the actual assembly line and finally the digital assistance and other systems.

It makes sense for beginners to avoid isolated solutions and to keep the option of later upgrades open - regardless of whether these are actually used in the end.

Step 4: Gradually integrate agile

Every intermediate step that is implemented requires thorough reflection - and not just from a technical and process perspective. For example, it is essential to incorporate any concerns and suggestions made by the assembly staff during the implementation process. This ensures acceptance of newly introduced processes and digital systems. A modular structure is therefore ideal for the assembly line and the assistance software, which can be modified, rearranged and expanded at any time.

The Bott Group is your strong partner

With freely configurable workstations and assembly lines as well as its own digital assistance software, the Bott Group implements comprehensive and open solutions - all from a single source. The focus here is on analyzing the current situation and the goals of the customer's assembly company. With experience and a comprehensive partner network, the ideal solution for your company can be found. The Bott Group experts will accompany you every step of the way.